By Joe Jackson and Thomas Zambito
New York Daily News
January 28, 2010
http://www.nydailynews.com/news/ny_crime/2010/01/28/2010-01-28_qns_priest_target_of_kidporn_probe.html
NEW YORK -- The feds have opened a kiddie-porn probe of an elderly Queens cleric, who has been suspended from his priestly duties.
The allegations against 78- year-old Msgr. Michael Dempsey were revealed to parishoners at Our Lady Queen of Martyrs church in an emotional letter from Brooklyn Diocese Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio.
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| Dempsey is being eyed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents for viewing online child porn. |
Dempsey is being eyed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents for viewing online child porn.
"You are undoubtedly aware of the deep suffering and hurt that surround any matter of child abuse, especially when the allegations involve a member of the clergy," DiMarzio said. "It can damage, often irreparably, the trust and the reputations of all who are in any way affected by it."
The news left the Forest Hills parish reeling.
"Every preacher seems okay, but we never know what's inside," said Blanca Navarro, 55.
A longtime Dempsey pal said he was stunned.
"My first response to this was that's impossible," said the Rev. Frank Mann. "People just can't believe this. It just doesn't fit who the man is."
Dempsey's lawyer Margaret Shalley could not be reached for comment.
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